23 Cute Hairstyles for Medium Hair Ideas
Medium hair is like the Goldilocks of hairstyles—not too long, not too short, but juuuust right.
You’ve got enough length to play around with curls, braids, and buns, but it’s still easy enough to style without spending your entire morning in front of a mirror wondering why your hair hates you.
If you’ve been stuck in a ponytail rut, this list will seriously shake things up.
Whether you’re heading to brunch, a wedding, or just trying to look less “I rolled out of bed,” here are 23 ridiculously cute hairstyles for medium hair you’re going to want to screenshot.
1. Loose Beach Waves
This one’s a classic for a reason. Loose, effortless waves scream cool girl energy—without actually requiring a trip to the beach.
Pro tip: Use a 1.25-inch curling wand, wrap sections away from your face, then shake it out with your fingers for that “oh this? I woke up like this” vibe.
Bonus: it works on day-two hair.
2. Half-Up, Half-Down Bun
The half-up bun is basically the hairstyle version of sweatpants that look chic. You get the face-framing lift of an updo while still letting your hair flow.
Perfect for hiding the fact you didn’t wash it.
3. Side Braid with Loose Curls
If you want to look like you totally planned your hair days in advance, this is it. Curl your hair first, then braid just one side and pin it behind your ear.
You’ll look like you belong in a rom-com meet-cute scene.
4. Low Sleek Ponytail
Minimalist. Chic. Powerful. The low sleek pony works for literally any outfit—from office blazers to that thrifted leather jacket you’re obsessed with.
5. Messy Low Bun
The “I didn’t try but somehow look amazing” style. Twist your hair loosely, secure it low, and pull out a few face-framing strands.
If it looks too neat, mess it up a bit.
6. French Braid Crown
Want to feel like a Disney princess without the giant ball gown? Try a French braid crown. Braid along your hairline and pin it at the back.
It’s cute, romantic, and keeps your hair out of your face (ideal for windy days).
7. Twisted Half-Updo
Instead of braids, twist two small sections from each side and secure them at the back with a cute clip. Instant elegance in under five minutes.
8. Loose Low Chignon
This one’s great for weddings or fancy events. Gather your hair low, twist into a bun, and secure loosely so it looks soft, not severe.
Add a few pearly pins if you want extra drama.
9. Space Buns
Two mini buns on either side of your head—yes, they’re playful, yes, they’re youthful, and yes, you can totally pull them off even if you’re not at a music festival.
10. Waterfall Braid
This braid literally flows down your hair like a waterfall, which is just as pretty as it sounds. It takes a bit of practice, but the results are worth every arm cramp.
11. Side-Swept Waves
Curl your hair and sweep everything to one side. This gives you instant red carpet vibes without a stylist or a $500 blowout.
12. Double Dutch Braids
Sporty, cute, and totally practical. You can wear them to the gym or just to keep hair out of your face when running errands.
Plus, they look great when you take them out (hello, heatless waves!).
13. Voluminous Blowout
Think ’90s supermodel hair—big, bouncy, and full of life. Use a round brush and blow dryer, then set it with Velcro rollers. It’s extra, but in the best way.
14. Claw Clip Twist
The claw clip comeback is one of the best trends in hair history. Just twist your hair, secure it with a cute clip, and you’re done in 10 seconds flat.
15. Loose Side Bun
Perfect for brunch or a garden party, this style keeps things romantic.
Gather your hair to one side, twist it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins. Leave a few curls loose for softness.
16. Mini Accent Braids
Add a few tiny braids randomly throughout your hair for a subtle boho feel.
Works with straight or wavy textures and instantly makes you look like you own a closet full of flowy maxi dresses.
17. Curtain Bang Waves
If you’ve got curtain bangs, style them with big, soft curls and let the rest of your hair flow in matching waves. It frames your face like magic.
18. Bubble Ponytail
Tie your ponytail in sections with clear elastics, then gently tug each section to create “bubbles.”
It’s playful, modern, and looks way more complicated than it actually is.
19. Braided Low Pony
Braid your ponytail for a sporty-meets-romantic vibe. It’s the perfect way to add interest without going full updo.
20. Half-Up French Twist
Yes, you can do a French twist without committing to an updo. Just gather half your hair, twist it up, and secure with pins or a clip. It’s understated elegance.
21. Sleek Straight with Middle Part
Sometimes, simple wins. Straighten your hair, part it down the middle, and enjoy looking like a minimalist fashion influencer.
22. Headband with Loose Curls
Headbands are back, and I’m here for it. Curl your hair, pop on a cute headband, and you’ve got instant style points.
23. Textured Lob with Waves
If you’ve got a lob (long bob), add some messy texture with sea salt spray. It’s low-maintenance but high-style, IMO.
Quick Styling Tips for Medium Hair
- Dry shampoo is your BFF—not just for refreshing hair, but also for adding volume and grip.
- Hair accessories (clips, scarves, pins) can instantly make a simple style look intentional.
- Curling away from your face opens it up, curling towards frames it—mix both for a natural look.
- Keep a small travel-size hairspray in your bag for on-the-go touch-ups.
Why Medium Hair Wins Every Time
Medium hair gives you the best of both worlds—the versatility of long hair without the heavy maintenance.
You can still pull it up into buns, braid it, wave it, or leave it sleek and straight without feeling weighed down.
Plus, most of these styles take under 15 minutes (because who actually has an hour to style their hair every morning?).
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—23 cute hairstyles for medium hair that’ll keep you looking fresh, fun, and far from boring.
Whether you’re into sleek looks, romantic waves, or playful braids, medium hair has endless potential. Honestly, half the fun is experimenting.
Try one today, switch it up tomorrow, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll finally break up with that messy ponytail you’ve been wearing for a decade. 😉
